Non-surgical rhinoplasty: the dorsal hump

The non-surgical rhinoplasty is a procedure which has become a popular for patients who aren’t ready to have a surgical rhinoplasty or who are considering having a surgical rhinoplasty, but would like to “test it out” before committing to permanent changes.

Noses come in all shapes and sizes with several discernible patterns. These patterns are defined by the straightness and height of the bridge of the nose and by the tip of the nose. The combined bridge and tip is what makes your distinct shape.

Let’s talk about the most common cosmetic nasal deformity that people seek to correct, the dorsal hump. In this article we will explain; what causes the dorsal hump, what non-surgical treatment options we have, and when a surgical intervention would be an appropriate option.

What causes the dorsal hump?

The dorsal hump can be identified when looking at the nose from the side and noticing a hump along the bridge of the nose. This can range from a small hump to one that is larger and results in a downward slope to the tip of the nose.

This hump is made of both bone and cartilage. In a straight bridge, the bone and cartilage junction are level and a straight line can be drawn from the top of the nose to the tip of the nose. In a dorsal hump, the junction of the bone and cartilage is raised, giving a small hump above the level line. Generally speaking, this elevation is a natural variation in anatomy. Most people are simply born with this hump, and it does not result is problem with breathing or blockage of the nasal passages. The most common desired cosmetic trait is a straight nasal bridge, and an upturned tip of the nose. This style of beauty is the primary driving factor for patients to request either a non-surgical (what we specialize in) or surgical correction to this hump.

Correcting the dorsal hump

Correcting the dorsal hump during a non-surgical rhinoplasty involves using either dermal filler or PDO Threads, or a combination of both.

Using dermal filler to straighten the bridge involves placing the filler in the deeper layers of the skin above the hump, closer to the forehead, and below the hump, towards the tip of the nose. By raising the top and bottom of the bridge to the level of the peak of the dorsal hump, this provides the visually straight line from the profile view.

PDO threads can also be placed, typically in conjunction with dermal filler, to produce the same effect. Placing PDO threads along the bridge of the nose, under the skin and above the bone and cartilage, causes collagen formation, which over time fills in the gaps and pulls the tip up.

The results from the non-surgical rhinoplasty typically last one year, and most people will have the procedure repeated annually.

When is surgery for the dorsal hump the better option?

Great question!

Because during a non-surgical rhinoplasty, we are ADDING structure in order the straighten the bridge, there are inherent limitations. Adding structure has limits and will be able to correct small or medium size dorsal humps, but not large ones.

Large dorsal humps require REMOVAL of the bone and cartilage, which only a surgeon can do. This is why a good consultation is necessary, and we are very clear about advising whether a surgical rhinoplasty is in your best interest.

The more practical consideration is temporary vs. permanent. If you are interested in a permanent solution, then surgery provides this option. If you are not certain, or would like to avoid some risks of surgery, then the non-surgical route is a good option.

At Maui Med Spa, we believe that everyone deserves to feel confident and comfortable in their own skin. That's why we offer non-surgical rhinoplasty as a safe, effective, and minimally-invasive alternative to traditional nose surgery. With our experienced team of medical professionals, advanced techniques, and personalized approach, we can help you enhance your natural beauty and achieve the look you've always wanted. So whether you're looking to correct a bump, improve symmetry, or simply enhance your facial harmony, non-surgical rhinoplasty at Maui Med Spa can help you achieve your goals without the risks, downtime, or expense of surgery. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation!